1861

Armitage began by stating that the level of convictions was lower than in some of the previous years, but was concerned at the number of beerhouse licences issued — these being out of the control of the local magistrates at that time — and the fact that conviction rate amongst those was much higher.

Mr. Bradley, the magistrate's clerk, then read out the convictions from the previous 12 months:

John Balderson (White Swan Hotel, Kirkgate) for opening during prohibited hours on a Sunday

William Howard (Exchange, Upperhead Row) for opening during prohibited hours on a Sunday

Superintendent Heaton then informed the bench that William Howe (Waggon and Horses, Wooldale) had died in February 1861 but his licence had never been transferred. Although the final decision was left to the adjourned session, at the recommendation of the magistrate's clerk, a temporary licence was made out in the name of Howe's sister-in-law, Elizabeth Roberts.

A total of eleven applications for new licences were submitted, although only one was successful:

At the adjourned session, the licence for the Waggon and Horses, Leeds Road, was renewed on account of the applicant George Mallinson being late to the first session. Similarly, the licence of Mary Wood (Kaye's Arms, Quay Street) was renewed.

The licence for the Fleece Inn, Meltham, was removed from Joseph Green (due to his misconduct) and awarded to Richard Newhouse.